Daily Devotion

Daily Devotion Monday April 13

John 11:25-26

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.”

On Good Friday morning I found myself at a cemetery. I had been asked earlier in the week if I could officiate at a graveside service, even though it was Good Friday.  Most years, probably not.  This year, why not?  We would not be having face to face worship at Good Shepherd that day, so I agreed to help. 

The woman who died was 90 years old.  She was not a member of Good Shepherd, but she had connections to our church.  To be honest, I was glad to do the service because it felt like a “normal” part of my role as Pastor, a role that has felt like anything but normal lately.

At the appointed time, the small crowd assembled, donning their masks, maintaining distance.  As I got ready to start the service, I was surprised by how deeply moving it was to stand in a cemetery on Good Friday and stare into a six foot deep hole.  This was a Good Friday first for me.

What a day to come face to face with death—to remember the brutal death and hasty burial that Jesus experienced-- to be reminded of my own mortality—to bring a word of comfort to those who mourned.  I said to the group, “Jesus died for THIS moment.  So that when we come to this moment we know that our lives don’t simply end with a hole in the ground.  Jesus died so we can entrust C. into the hands of a loving God-where she will know resurrection life to the fullest. 

This was not news to me, but it felt more powerful somehow, given the circumstances.

Jesus did die for that moment when we stare death in the face.  But Jesus also died for THIS moment….you know, the one you are breathing into right now.  Jesus died so that we would know life RIGHT NOW to the fullest.  That we would have life, and have it abundantly, as Jesus said in John 10:10. 

How are you experiencing abundant life in these days?  Resurrection can and does happen now, even before you die.

Pastor Heidi Johns

2 comments on article "Daily Devotion"

Susan R Berkoben

Heidi,

I just wanted to tell you that we thought your Easter message was outstanding! We watched five other services that day, but your service is the one we felt the most connection and commitment.

Sue

4/13/2020 11:30 AM

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Carla

Pastor Heidi and staff,

Thanks to all for the work you have done to keep us connected during this strange time. I have loved the devotions and we enjoyed the Holy week services including Easter, as well as Pastor Alex's videos with his kids. Something for everyone!

4/13/2020 5:25 PM

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